General Information
All guests, including Dallas Zoo Members, are required to reserve tickets online prior to visiting.
Hours of operation
The Zoo is open 364 days a year! Closed Christmas Day (Dec. 25).
Fall/Winter
Oct. 1 – Feb. 28
9 a.m. to 4 p.m.
Standard
March 1 – Sept. 30
9 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Location
The Zoo is located three miles south of downtown Dallas, just off I-35E at the Ewing Ave. / Marsalis Ave. exit.
650 South R.L. Thornton Freeway (I-35E), Dallas, TX 75203
Be a great Zoo guest
Guest Guidelines
We’re so glad you’re visiting! Please note that we cannot guarantee all animals will be out and visible at all times. We ask that you please be respectful of the Zoo and our animals during your visit.

Frequently Asked Questions
When are you open?
The Zoo is open every day except December 25. Hours are 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. during spring and summer and 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. during fall and winter.
How do I get to the Zoo?
We are located at 650 South R.L. Thornton Freeway in Dallas.
Via car: Exit at Marsalis Avenue from Interstate 35E. Our main entrance is located by the tall giraffe statue, on the northbound access road of I-35E.
Via DART: Take the DART (Dallas Area Rapid Transit) RED LINE to the Dallas Zoo Station.
What is the cost of admission and parking?
Starting April 1, 2021, ticket prices will range from $8 to $22 based on seasonal attendance at the Zoo. This gives you the freedom to plan your Zoo day around your schedule and budget! Please note that this new ticketing model does NOT mean an overall price increase.
Parking: $10 per car; FREE for Dallas Zoo members. The Zoo accepts cash and credit/debit cards with a matching photo ID.
What rental items are available?
You may bring your own strollers and wheelchairs, but they also are available to rent. Our costs:
Single stroller: $9
Double stroller: $13
Manual Wheelchair: $15
ECV: $27
ECV w/ canopy: $35
Rentals are subject to availability and are rented on a first-come, first-served basis at the Gift Shop, located just inside the front gate. Call 469.554.7462 for more information.
Can I use CityPASS to visit the Zoo?
You may use CityPASS to visit Dallas Zoo plus 3 more top Dallas attractions at a 47% savings. Buy your CityPASS online for immediate, paperless delivery to your mobile device. Advanced reservations are not required for CityPASS users. Present your CityPASS tickets at any guest admission booth at either of the Dallas Zoo’s two entrances (main or south) to receive your timed admission ticket.
May I bring pets into the Zoo?
For the safety of our animals and yours, the Dallas Zoo does not allow pets on the grounds. ADA compliant service animals are permitted.
May I bring my own food and drinks?
Guests may bring their own food and drinks, although glass items, alcoholic beverages and single-use disposable straws are not permitted. There are no facilities available for food or cooler storage. We have several restaurants and food and beverage carts on the grounds with a wide selection of healthy, affordable menu items.
Are commercial photography and videography allowed?
Wedding and portrait photography is allowed at the Dallas Zoo. Fees are charged by the hour. People intending to take photos/film/video for commercial purposes at the Dallas Zoo must submit a request in writing to the Dallas Zoo Marketing Department at least two weeks before the date of the intended photo shoot. Contact us at Press@DallasZoo.com for details.
Are there baby-changing stations?
Yes, in every set of restrooms.
Does the Zoo have a nursing room?
The Comfort Station (located in the Guest Services building next to the gift shop) is available for nursing mothers and includes power outlets for pumping mothers.
Where can I find family restrooms?
Family restrooms can be found in ZooNorth in the Wonders of the Wild Amphitheater. An additional family restroom is available in Simmons Safari Base Camp in the Giants of the Savanna.
I represent a 501(c)3 nonprofit organization. Would the Zoo contribute tickets or anything to our cause?
The Dallas Zoo is pleased to give back to the community by considering all charitable donation requests from qualified 501(c)(3) nonprofit organizations in the North Texas area. It is our policy to donate up to one (1) Family Fun Four-Pack (two adult and two child admission tickets) per year per eligible organization. Behind the scenes tours or blocks of tickets are not donated. Click here and fill out our request form to be considered.
Can I feed the animals?
Our animals are on special diets, so outside food is not permitted for feeding the animals. Guests may purchase special items from the Zoo to feed the giraffes, Galapagos tortoises, and the birds at Birds Landing in the Lacerte Family Children’s Zoo.
May I bring a weapon to the Zoo?
No. Under state law, the Zoo is considered both an amusement park and an educational institution, so concealed weapons aren’t allowed, even for licensed holders of concealed handgun permits.
May I bring a drone or a stand-up scooter?
Neither drones or stand-up scooters are allowed in the zoo, for the safety of guests and animals.
What is the smoking policy at the Zoo?
To reduce exposure to secondhand smoke to our guests, animals and staff and ensure a good experience for all guests, smoking and vaping will not be allowed inside the Dallas Zoo. Guests may smoke only in designated areas, which are located more than 25 feet from both the Main and South entry gates. Hand stamps will be provided to ensure easy re-entry. Should you observe a guest smoking, please report it to a Zoo employee, and we’ll address the situation.
May I leave and come back in?
We prefer to limit in-and-outs, but you may return to your vehicle if you forgot something you need.
If my membership is expired, do I have to pay for parking?
Yes. Only current Dallas Zoo members with a valid membership card and ID receive free parking.
Are there water fountains?
Yes, located in various areas of the Zoo.
Are shoes required?
Shoes are strongly recommended for all Zoo guests. A badly stubbed toe or other injury could ruin your visit!
How can I volunteer at the Zoo?
We love our volunteers! Visit our volunteers page to see our adult and youth volunteer opportunities.